Marbella’s best river routes and its natural pools

The arrival of the good weather allows us to enjoy nature in an active way. Thanks to its orography, Malaga is ideal for river routes where you can discover unexpected and unusual spots on the Costa del Sol. That’s why we encourage you to discover the best river routes in Marbella and its natural pools.

This is the time of year when sports and nature lovers can enjoy the peace and quiet that river routes bring. One of the great advantages of this type of hiking in Malaga is that you can immerse yourself in a natural pool at any time and thus alleviate the effects of the heat in a pleasant way.

Thanks to the various river routes that the Costa del Sol has to offer, many nature lovers decide to establish their place of residence in the province of Malaga. At Gilmar Off Plan we know this. That’s why we offer a wide range of exclusive properties located just a few kilometres away from incredible areas such as landscapes and rivers with natural pools where you can go hiking.

The best river routes in Marbella

Before venturing into the rivers of Marbella you should be prepared. It is important to carry a backpack with some food and water. In addition, for this type of activity it is highly recommended to wear special footwear that you can use in the water.

Sun protection, hats and swimwear are also necessary items of equipment for any of the river tours on the Costa del Sol.

If you already have everything you need to start your adventure on the rivers of Marbella, we explain some of the best routes in the area.

Hiking in the narrows of the Guadalmina River (Benahavís).

Pueblo Benahavís

The Guadalmina River crosses the municipality of Benahavís (adjacent to Marbella), offering a beautiful landscape to walk through its now emblematic narrows. The route starts at the so-called Charco de las Mozas, which has been declared a natural heritage site.

Surrounded by a beautiful natural setting, El Charco de las Mozas is ideal for canyoning. It is a very popular pool in Malaga, as well as one of the most famous sporting canyoning descents in Andalusia.

The pond is formed by a small pool which can be reached by jumping in. To descend the Guadalmina river canyon you must have the necessary equipment (helmet, wetsuit and rope) as well as the necessary precautions when jumping, as the terrain is very steep.

The route lasts between 2 and 3 hours approximately, ending at the so-called Charca de los Tubos. We recommend that you wear booties, as well as a wetsuit or neoprene T-shirt if temperatures are low. If the route is done with children, it is advisable to bring floats as there are sections where you have to swim.

Charco de las Mozas is not difficult to reach, it is accessed via the road into Benahavís (A-7175), parking in the village and arriving on foot via a footpath.

Charca de las Nutrias, Estepona

Pueblo Estepona

In the heart of the Sierra Bermeja in Estepona, we find the Castor River hiking route, a small section that reaches the Charca de las Nutrias. This pool is one of the deepest of the whole route.

The pool covers the central areas. Many hikers tend to jump from one of the side walls, which is a serious danger due to the difficulty of accessing the platform.

Descending along the course of the Castor river, we can enjoy the rest of the pools along the route. The only area where you can take a spot is the central bank, which is covered with boulders. There is not much shade, so it is advisable to use sun protection and a hat, as the sun shines almost all day long.

To find the Charca de las Nutrias (Otter Pond), which can be reached via the A-7 by taking exit 160 and following the Alberdina road. Crossing the Los Molinos-El Nicio natural park for 2.5 km, you will reach the Castor.

Charco de las Viñas in Ojén

Pueblo Ojén

A few kilometres from Marbella is the natural swimming pool El Charco de las Viñas. This enclave on the river Tejar has been the pool of the inhabitants of Ojén. It has very good access from the village. To get there, take the motorway exit towards Ojén. The pool is located next to the local cemetery, after going down some steps. Charco de las Viñas has a certain depth, is usually clean and is not overcrowded.

The offer of active and natural tourism in the area surrounding Marbella is exceptional. From Gilmar Off Plan we bring you closer to it thanks to our newly built properties in which you can establish your second home and be just a few kilometres away from the best river routes in Marbella.

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